Donald M Brown

Donald M. Brown of Westampton, NJ died on May 2, 2023 at the age of 75. Don was born in Summit, NJ to Neil and Muriel (Drake) Brown. The family lived in Springfield until Don was ten, when they moved to Belford NJ. Don graduated from Middletown HS, then attended Newark State College (now Kean College) with the intention of becoming an Industrial Arts teacher. After two years, he left college and was drafted into the army. Don served two tours of duty in Viet Nam with the Special Forces Upon returning home, Don chose to continue his education at the University of the Virgin Islands on St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. He enrolled as a sophomore, majoring in psychology. It was there he met his future wife, Laura, whose family had moved to St. Croix a few years earlier. They graduated in May 1974, and married in June 1974. After moving back to New Jersey, where Don received a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Trenton State College (now the College of NJ), he began working at Rutgers University in the Office of Veteran’s Affairs. Don then spent the next 30 years working with the Educational Opportunity Fund program at the School of Engineering. He was a guiding influence who impacted thousands of students. After 33 years, Don retired as Associate Dean at the School of Engineering. Don and Laura returned to St. Croix after retirement. They enjoyed sailing, swimming, and island life in general. Don was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Nancy Helwig. He is survived by his wife Laura, brother-in-law Bob Helwig, nephew Jonathon (Katie), and great-nieces Haley and Emily. He is also survived by many cousins living throughout the country. He also leaves behind many friends including neighbors, the Rutgers family, and the St. Croix family. Don will be greatly missed. Funeral services are private. A celebration of Don’s life will be held at Rutgers School of Engineering in June. Donations may be sent to the Don Brown Book Fund through the Rutgers Foundation. give.rutgers.edu/DonBrownBookFund